Transmission power line clearance

LG&E and KU trim and clear transmission line rights of way in a much more comprehensive way than in the past. Coupled with investments in new poles, wires, equipment, and technology, we’ve been able to substantially improve reliability for customers.

Our pledge to you

  • We maintain our transmission line rights of way according to a schedule that allows us to cover our entire system over a period of several years.
  • We know trimming and removing trees is not always popular, but it is vital for the safety and reliability of our electric system, the grid and all those who depend on them.
  • We pledge to communicate with property owners well in advance of scheduled work.
  • We pledge to perform work in a professional manner and work within the easement rights that pertain to each property.
  • We pledge to treat all customers with respect and each property with care.

Before and after examples

trees too close to transmission pole and lines

Before clearance

trees after clearance from transmission pole

After clearance

trees too close to transmission tower

Before clearance

transmission tower after tree clearance

After clearance

Hazard trees

Trees near the right of way may fall into poor condition because of disease, storms or other factors. To prevent these trees from even falling close to our lines, we will remove at no cost to the property owner.

Compatible species for planting

This list is not all-inclusive and is meant as a guide. Vegetation of any species may be removed for operational, safety or reliability reasons.

Shrubs

  • Hydrangea
  • Witch-Hazel
  • Spicebush
  • Elderberry
  • Rhododendron
  • Viburnum
  • Dogwood Bush
  • Smooth Sumac (Dwarf)
  • Staghorn Sumac
  • Chokeberry Bush
  • Mountain Laurel
  • American Yew
  • Sweetfern
  • Huckleberry
  • Blueberry
  • Meadowsweet
  • Wintergreen
  • Trailing Arbutus
  • Blackberry
  • Raspberry
  • Hazelnut Bush
  • Scrub Oak
  • Red Vein Enkianthus

Small trees

  • Rising Sun Redbud
  • Weeping Redbud
  • Ace of Hearts Redbud
  • Sparkling Wine Redbud
  • Coral Burst Crabapple
  • Sargent Crabapple
  • Lollipop Crabapple
  • Jane Magnolia
  • Ann Magnolia
  • Chaparral Weeping Mulberry
  • Cloud Nine Dogwood
  • Tatarian Dogwood
  • Crape Myrtle – Dwarf Varieties
  • Emerald Green Arborvitae

Other species

  • All native grasses
  • Ferns
  • Non-woody plants, excluding bamboo